Were You Involved In A Fender-Bender

Fender Benders And Minor Auto Accidents – The Most Common Misconceptions

This has happened to nearly all of us at one time or another. You’re at a stop light or in a parking lot and someone bumps your car. They were moving slowly, and there doesn’t appear to be any damage. So you mutually decide that no further action is required. However, just because you don’t see a problem doesn’t mean there isn’t one. Internal car damage or worse and unchecked bodily injury are some of the common and unfortunate effects of a minor auto accident.

Did You Know…

A clean bumper after an accident may not be a good indication of internal damage.

Many people don’t exchange insurance information after a fender bender.

Some spinal cord or nerve trauma may not produce aches and pains until weeks or even months afterward.

Joint problems or disk problems may not show up for years after a collision.

Statements you make after an accident can be used against you in court.

What Should I Do?

Always exchange insurance information and obtain a police report. Some companies and states require this, regardless of the accident’s scale. The person who hits you has your license plate number. If you agree to part ways amicably and you do not exchange full information, you may be charged with leaving the scene of an accident.

Get checked by a doctor. Just because there are no broken bones or bleeding doesn’t mean bodily harm hasn’t occurred. Seeing a physician not only leaves a paper trail for a possible claim, but also ensures you have no other injuries such as whiplash, brain trauma, nerve damage or spinal cord alignment problems.

Have your car checked. There may be unseen problems with your car, including trunk/hood/door malfunction, vehicle alignment, subframe damage, cracked radiator, core support harm or crumple zones damage. All of these can lead to hundreds or even thousands of dollars worth of repairs.

Talk to me — an experienced personal injury attorney at Frank P. Bianco, P.A. It’s not always about lawsuits — sometimes you merely need an adviser to ensure you’re handling an auto accident properly or not missing any important steps. That said, should litigation be required, I will work tirelessly on your behalf to see that you’re compensated for lost wages, medical costs, or pain and suffering. I have served the Pasco County area for over 20 years, and have earned the faith and trust of the community.